Blog with purpose

Discover new fitness methods, be inspired by personal stories, and read case studies that prove your life can change when you move with purpose.

Top Tips For What To Look for In A Fitness Trainer Motive Training Staff
Fitness Trainer

Top Tips For What To Look for In A Fitness Trainer

Are you looking for the perfect fitness trainer? You're in luck; we're very experienced in this area, and even though we're biased toward our gym at Motive Training, we'll give you some tips on how to look for a fitness trainer in your area.
July 25, 2024
The Game Changer: Why A Personal Trainer For Men Is Essential In Their 30s And 40s Motive Training Staff
Men's Health

The Game Changer: Why A Personal Trainer For Men Is Essential In Their 30s And 40s

Life in your 30s and 40s can be a whirlwind. Between careers, families, and everything else on your plate, prioritizing your health can easily fall by the wayside. But this is a crucial decade to invest in yourself. As testosterone levels decline and the body naturally changes, maintaining strength, flexibility, and overall well-being becomes even more critical.
July 24, 2024
Can You Cure Pain For Good? Reframing Pain Management At Motive Training Motive Training Staff
Pain Management

Can You Cure Pain For Good? Reframing Pain Management At Motive Training

At Motive Training, we understand the debilitating impact of pain. It can disrupt your daily life, hinder your workouts, and leave you frustrated and discouraged. We don't promise a permanent 'cure' for pain, as pain serves a vital purpose in our body's complex communication system. However, we offer a comprehensive management approach that can significantly reduce your pain and improve your overall well-being.
July 23, 2024
Why Motive Training Recommends Vivobarefoot Shoes for Training Brian Murray
Barefoot Training

Why Motive Training Recommends Vivobarefoot Shoes for Training

At Motive Training, we believe in empowering you to move with purpose; it's our slogan, after all. We believe in training that strengthens your body, improves your balance, and unleashes your full potential. But let's face it: achieving that can be tough when your shoes hold you back.
July 23, 2024
Should You Use StretchLab? Brian Murray
Stretching

Should You Use StretchLab?

In the quest for a pain-free, agile body, mobility training has emerged as a game-changer. Gyms have shifted their focus toward rehabilitation, recovery, and stretching, and we think that's a great thing. However, with opportunity comes the potential for greed and overpromised results. For instance, some facilities may promise immediate and miraculous results, which can be misleading and unrealistic.
July 21, 2024
A Deep Dive into Controlled Articular Rotations (CARs) Motive Training Staff
Functional Range Conditioning

A Deep Dive into Controlled Articular Rotations (CARs)

Imagine moving with the grace of a dancer, the power of an athlete, and the pain-free ease of someone who truly inhabits their body. This freedom of movement isn't just a dream—it's achievable through a practice called controlled articular rotations (CARs)...
July 21, 2024
You Need A Mobility Trainer Motive Training Staff
Mobility

You Need A Mobility Trainer

When was the last time you woke up feeling like a million bucks? Exactly. Past injuries, repetitive motions from work or hobbies, and even just the natural aging process can leave us feeling stiff, achy, and limited movement. For older adults aged 65 or older, this often results in difficulty walking due to trouble with balance, posture, and movement from poor joint mobility. This doesn't just impact our ability...
July 12, 2024
Scapula Exercises You Need For Healthier Shoulders (And Better Programming) Motive Training Staff
Personal Training

Scapula Exercises You Need For Healthier Shoulders (And Better Programming)

Hey there, fellow warriors in the 30+ trenches! Let’s face it: our bodies start telling a different story as the miles tick by. Aches, creaks, and limitations we never knew existed suddenly become unwelcome companions. But what if I told you the culprit behind your shoulder woes...
July 11, 2024
Obesity: Addressing America's Growing Health Concerns Motive Training Staff
Fitness

Obesity: Addressing America's Growing Health Concerns

America is a land of opportunity, innovation, and, let's be honest, some seriously delicious food. But amidst the hustle and bustle lies a concerning trend–a nation's health slowly slipping away. We're seeing a rise in obesity, a decline in physical activity, and an overall dip in well-being...
July 6, 2024
Client Spotlight: Jay's Journey At Motive Training Motive Training Staff
Client Spotlight

Client Spotlight: Jay's Journey At Motive Training

At Motive Training, we believe in the power of consistent effort and personalized training to unlock your full potential. Today, we're shining a light on one of our inspiring clients, Jay, who embodies this philosophy perfectly...
July 6, 2024
Client Spotlight: From Frustration To Freedom—Michele's Journey At Motive Training Motive Training Staff
Client Spotlight

Client Spotlight: From Frustration To Freedom—Michele's Journey At Motive Training

At Motive Training, we believe in helping people Move With Purpose. That purpose can take many forms, but a common thread among our clients is the desire to feel better in their bodies. Today, we celebrate Michele's incredible journey towards a healthier, happier life. Michele, a testament to resilience and determination...
June 23, 2024
Reclaiming Your Strength: Why Postpartum Exercise Matters More Than You Think Motive Training Staff
Fitness

Reclaiming Your Strength: Why Postpartum Exercise Matters More Than You Think

Congratulations! You've embarked on the incredible journey of parenthood. But let's be honest; the postpartum period can be a whirlwind of emotions, sleep deprivation, and a new definition of "busy." Exercise often falls by the wayside, deemed a luxury rather than a necessity. However, prioritizing postpartum exercise isn't just about aesthetics...
June 21, 2024
Does stretching work? Motive Training Staff
Stretching

Does stretching work?

Ever feel like your body's become a tangled mess of knotted muscles and creaky joints? You're not alone. As we age, our bodies naturally lose some of their fluidity, leading to stiffness, decreased range of motion, and, let's be honest, not-so-pleasant aches and pains. But fear not, fellow 30+-year-olds! The answer to unlocking smoother, pain-free...
March 21, 2024
The Benefits of Functional Range Conditioning Motive Training Staff
Functional Range Conditioning

The Benefits of Functional Range Conditioning

Stepping into the fitness world can feel like navigating a labyrinth of options. From the regimented routines of powerlifting to the all-encompassing world of "functional training," each path promises results, but which genuinely leads you to move better, feel better, and live a life unrestricted by limitations? Enter Functional Range Conditioning (FRC). FRC offers a...
March 14, 2024
Should You Hire A Local Personal Trainer? Motive Training Staff
Personal Training

Should You Hire A Local Personal Trainer?

Imagine navigating a foreign city—exciting, vast, but undeniably overwhelming. You have a goal and a destination in mind, yet countless unfamiliar streets and modes of transportation stand in your way. This can be similar to embarking on a fitness journey without a guide. Sure, the internet offers many generic workout plans and fitness information. However,...
March 12, 2024
Forge Your Fountain of Youth: Why Strength Training is Your Unsung Hero Motive Training Staff
Strength

Forge Your Fountain of Youth: Why Strength Training is Your Unsung Hero

Forget mythical elixirs and hidden waterfalls. The key to feeling stronger, moving better, and extending your lifespan might be hiding in plain sight–the weight rack. Yes, strength training, often relegated to chiseled gym rats and competitive athletes, holds surprising benefits for us all, especially you, the discerning 30+-year-old seeking a vibrant, healthy future. Think strength...
February 21, 2024
Why Your Journey Should Start at Our Fitness Studio In Grand Rapids Motive Training Staff
Grand Rapids

Why Your Journey Should Start at Our Fitness Studio In Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids is a vibrant city brimming with life, culture, and, let's not forget, fitness options galore. It's exciting, but navigating this diverse landscape can be overwhelming. You, the go-getter seeking to move, feel, and transform your physique, deserve not just any gym but one that sparks progress and empowers you. That's where we come...
February 19, 2024
Our Secret Weapon: Better Personal Trainer Assessments Motive Training Staff
Assessments

Our Secret Weapon: Better Personal Trainer Assessments

Are you feeling lost in the gym or confused about where to start your fitness journey? Are you frustrated by plateaus and lackluster progress? If any of these resonate, it's time to highlight personal trainer assessments–the unsung heroes of successful transformations. Assessments might seem like an extra hurdle, but trust me, they're the key to...
February 18, 2024
Ditch The Couch, Unleash Your Power: Why Gyms Are Your Gateway To A Better You Motive Training Staff
Gym

Ditch The Couch, Unleash Your Power: Why Gyms Are Your Gateway To A Better You

Exercising at a gym is at an all-time low. That shouldn't surprise you at all, though. Obesity statistics are through the roof, and activity declines year after year. We live in a world that conspires against movement. From office chairs to car seats, our lives are a dance with inertia, a tango with the temptation...
February 14, 2024
Unleash the Twist: Why Rotational Exercises Rule Your Mobility Game Motive Training Staff
Functional Range Conditioning

Unleash the Twist: Why Rotational Exercises Rule Your Mobility Game

Ah, the importance of joint rotation. Why the heck are we writing about this? Picture this: a majestic oak tree, weathered but strong, its branches gracefully bending in the wind. Now, imagine yourself, rooted like that oak yet stiff as a telephone pole, your limbs lacking the fluid swing of nature's masterpiece. That, my friends...
February 12, 2024
The Underrated Power of Stretching: Move Better, Feel Better, Be Better Motive Training Staff
Stretching

The Underrated Power of Stretching: Move Better, Feel Better, Be Better

The older we get, the more we understand the importance of caring for our bodies. We're not just talking about aesthetics anymore (although, let's be honest, feeling good in your own skin never goes out of style). We're talking about function, mobility, and the ability to move easily and confidently. And while many prioritize strength...
February 11, 2024
Functional Range Conditioning For Back Pain: Conquering Discomfort Motive Training Staff
Functional Range Conditioning

Functional Range Conditioning For Back Pain: Conquering Discomfort

Ah, back pain. That unwelcome companion that seems to lurk around every corner, turning a simple sneeze into an Olympic feat. We've all been there, battling stiffness, aches, and the frustrating limitations that a sore spine can enforce. But what if I told you there was a revolutionary approach to conquering back pain, one that...
February 7, 2024
Why Small Group Personal Training is Your Fitness Game Changer Motive Training Staff
Personal Training

Why Small Group Personal Training is Your Fitness Game Changer

Are you stuck in a fitness rut? Feeling adrift in a sea of treadmills, yearning for something more engaging, supportive, and frankly less lonely? If you're a 30-something looking to reclaim your mojo, both physically and mentally, then listen up–small group personal training is about to become your new best friend. Forget the intimidation of...
February 6, 2024
2024: Your Year To Move With Purpose: Why A Personal Trainer Is Your Secret Weapon Motive Training Staff
Personal Training

2024: Your Year To Move With Purpose: Why A Personal Trainer Is Your Secret Weapon

Hold on, 2024 warriors! Before you dive headfirst into another year of "same old, same old" resolutions, let's talk about something revolutionary: YOU. Yes, you, the incredible, complex, and capable being with boundless potential just waiting to be unleashed. This year, let's make it different. Let's make it the year you move with purpose, the...
January 30, 2024
The Lighter Side Of Movement: Why Shedding Pounds Can Unleash Your Inner Athlete Motive Training Staff
Personal Training

The Lighter Side Of Movement: Why Shedding Pounds Can Unleash Your Inner Athlete

Let's face it: life can feel like wading through molasses when we carry extra weight. Movement becomes a chore, stairs feel like you're climbing Mt. Everest, and even those playful puppy dog tackles elicit an "oof" instead of an "aw." But here's the good news, my friends: shedding some pounds isn't just about fitting into
January 27, 2024
Conquering The Maze: How To Get The Most Out Of Your Functional Range Assessment Motive Training Staff
Functional Range Assessment

Conquering The Maze: How To Get The Most Out Of Your Functional Range Assessment

Let's face it: our bodies can be mysteries. We clunk, creak, and ache, often wondering what hidden imbalances lurk beneath the surface. But fear not, intrepid explorers! We've got a map to navigate the labyrinthine ways of your musculoskeletal system: the Functional Range Assessment (FRA). Think of the FRA as an Indiana Jones adventure for
January 23, 2024
Austin Gyms: Ditch The Crowds, Find Your Tribe Motive Training Staff
Austin, TX

Austin Gyms: Ditch The Crowds, Find Your Tribe

Austinites, raise your breakfast tacos! We're a city that thrives on individuality, authenticity, and, let's face it, tacos. But when it comes to our fitness scene, the options can feel a little…crowded. Generic gyms pumping out cookie-cutter workouts, sterile environments devoid of soul – where's the Austin vibe in that? Fear not, my movement-loving amigos,...
January 16, 2024
Move Beyond the Ache: How Functional Range Conditioning Unlocks Pain-Free Living Motive Training Staff
Functional Range Conditioning

Move Beyond the Ache: How Functional Range Conditioning Unlocks Pain-Free Living

Imagine waking up without that dull ache in your lower back. Your knees are no longer protesting with every step, and your shoulders are finally free from that persistent tension. It may sound like a dream, but we turn it into reality at Motive Training. Our secret weapon? Functional Range Conditioning (FRC) is a revolutionary...
January 16, 2024
Let Us Be Your Personal Trainers In Austin Motive Training Staff
Austin, TX

Let Us Be Your Personal Trainers In Austin

In the aftermath of the global pandemic, the workforce landscape has transformed significantly. A large proportion of employees have shifted to remote or hybrid work schedules, leading to new challenges for HR leaders in maintaining engagement among an increasingly dispersed workforce. Nonetheless, one area where workers are embracing more face-to-face interaction is fitness. Corporate fitness...
December 28, 2023
Move With Meaning: The Benefits Of Functional Training Motive Training Staff
Fitness

Move With Meaning: The Benefits Of Functional Training

We crave movement. It's ingrained in our very being, a symphony of muscle and bone designed to bend, leap, and climb. Yet, we often confine ourselves to sterile gyms chained to machines that isolate and fragment this natural symphony. But there's a better way, a path that unleashes the full potential of movement, a path...
December 28, 2023
Why Everyone Needs A Fitness Program Brian Murray
Fitness

Why Everyone Needs A Fitness Program

Are you lost in the sea of treadmills and kettlebells? Feeling like you're wandering through a fitness jungle, unsure of the path to your goals? You're not alone. Navigating the fitness world can be daunting, especially when bombarded with conflicting information and overwhelming expectations. But fear not, intrepid explorer! This is where a fitness program...
December 24, 2023
Why Training With A Purpose Unleashes Your True Potential Motive Training Staff
Fitness

Why Training With A Purpose Unleashes Your True Potential

Forget the snooze button. Forget the endless scrolling. There's a fire within you, a yearning to move with purpose. This isn't just about another workout; it's about igniting your potential, one step, one rep, one bead of sweat at a time. As your personal trainer in Austin, TX, and Grand Rapids, MI, I've witnessed firsthand...
December 23, 2023
Reaping The Benefits Of A Personal Trainer For A Teenager - Motive Training Motive Training Staff
Personal Training

Reaping The Benefits Of A Personal Trainer For A Teenager - Motive Training

Are you looking for a personal trainer for your teenager? Well, you've come to the right place. In the modern era, the pervasive digital lifestyle has significantly increased sedentary behaviors among teenagers. This issue, combined with poor dietary choices, contributes to a rise in overweight and obesity cases among adolescents worldwide. Don't believe us? Just...
December 23, 2023
The Wonders Of A Private Personal Trainer Motive Training Staff
Personal Training

The Wonders Of A Private Personal Trainer

Fitness is a journey, and like any journey, it requires a guide. In health and wellness, a private personal trainer can be that guide. But what exactly is a private personal trainer, and why should you consider hiring one? Let's delve into the world of individualized fitness training and see how it can revolutionize your...
December 14, 2023
Goal Setting For 2024 Motive Training Staff
Goals

Goal Setting For 2024

As we edge closer to 2024, the time is ripe to reflect upon our fitness and health goals. Let's approach our ambitions this year with renewed vigor, realistic expectations, and a strategic plan. This article guides setting and achieving your 2024 health and fitness goals, drawing expertise from a Grand Rapids personal trainer and ideas
December 9, 2023
Looking For The Best Personal Trainer In Austin? Motive Training Staff
Austin, TX

Looking For The Best Personal Trainer In Austin?

It's almost December, and even though the holidays are approaching, many of you are likely focused on 2024. The new year is exciting; it's a fresh start for you to tackle new goals and aspirations. However, as we know from many years of experience (and research), most people will fall short of their goals. It's...
November 30, 2023
Top 7 Reasons To Train FRC For Hiking And Trail Running Marie Barker
Functional Range Conditioning

Top 7 Reasons To Train FRC For Hiking And Trail Running

Fall is in full-color tour mode here in Michigan. The Fall season is sublime across the Midwest for hiking and trail running. Temperatures are palatable and crisp, the scenery is majestic, and paths are groomed for exploration. If you are a regular on the trails or enjoy hitting them on a whim, Functional Range Conditioning...
November 6, 2023
Best Gym in Grand Rapids: Why Motive Training Stands Out Motive Training Staff
Grand Rapids

Best Gym in Grand Rapids: Why Motive Training Stands Out

A gym is not just a place to burn calories. It's a sanctuary for physical, mental, and sometimes, social wellness. The best gym in Grand Rapids offers more than just exercise; it provides an enriching experience. But how do you know where to find the best gym in Grand Rapids? Well, we're biased, but we...
October 30, 2023
Find A Functional Range Assessment Near Me Motive Training Staff
Functional Range Assessment

Find A Functional Range Assessment Near Me

Most people walk through life achy and beat up. Most of us have injuries or pains from things primarily out of our control (e.g., accidents). We've become accustomed to this lifestyle over time, almost expecting not to feel our best. But it doesn't have to be that way. The journey to a pain-free, healthy lifestyle...
October 24, 2023
Personal Training Grand Rapids: Your Gateway To Fitness And Well-being Motive Training Staff
Grand Rapids

Personal Training Grand Rapids: Your Gateway To Fitness And Well-being

If personal training in Grand Rapids isn't something you considered, then this article will convince you otherwise. The truth is fitness is a long and challenging journey. The owner of Motive Training, Brian Murray, can tell you this from firsthand experience. From 2008 to 2010, he lost over 75 pounds and has continued to improve...
October 22, 2023
The Value Of Physical Activity On Your Mental Health Marie Barker
Healthy Living

The Value Of Physical Activity On Your Mental Health

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness yearly. That's 52.9 million people. If we parlayed that to Kent County, that would likely be over 131,609, possibly including you, your family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. A variety of factors can impact mental well-being...
October 10, 2023
Local Personal Fitness Trainer For Hire Motive Training Staff
Personal Training

Local Personal Fitness Trainer For Hire

As we continue to navigate our increasingly busy lives, maintaining adequate fitness has become a non-negotiable aspect of our daily routines. It is not merely about looking good; it is a matter of overall health and longevity. Despite knowing this, many people still struggle to maintain a consistent fitness routine. This article examines how local...
October 9, 2023
Austin Fitness Trainer: Why We're The Best In TX Motive Training Staff
Austin, TX

Austin Fitness Trainer: Why We're The Best In TX

When it comes to personal training, you deserve nothing but the very best. And when in Austin, TX, the best means Motive Training. This article is a comprehensive guide to introduce you to the transformative world of Motive Training, the leading personal fitness training studio in Austin, TX. Let's dive in. The Motive Training Story:...
October 6, 2023
Are You Looking For Motive Fitness? Motive Training Staff
Personal Training

Are You Looking For Motive Fitness?

What is Motive Fitness? Well, that's not a thing, even though people always refer to our business as Motive Fitness. The truth is Brian Murray chose not to name the company Motive Fitness because he wanted people to take Motive Training seriously. To us, the word training focuses more on intent. Even by definition, training...
September 27, 2023
Discovering the Best Trainers in Grand Rapids: Spotlight on Marie Barker Motive Training Staff
Personal Training

Discovering the Best Trainers in Grand Rapids: Spotlight on Marie Barker

In the world of fitness, not all trainers are created equal. Among the best trainers in Grand Rapids, a name that stands out is Marie Barker. Her approach to personal training, impressive certifications, and commitment to clients make her a standout in her field. Who is Marie Barker? Marie Barker is an ACE-certified Personal Trainer,...
September 25, 2023
New: Motive Training Exercise Library Motive Training Staff
Fitness

New: Motive Training Exercise Library

In the realm of personal training and fitness, Motive Training is making waves with its innovative approach. Our mission is to teach individuals how to move with intent, crafting a well-rounded and functional body. With the exciting launch of our new exercise library, we want to revolutionize how you receive and learn fitness. A Paradigm...
September 23, 2023
Why You Need A Personal Trainer For Beginner Workouts Motive Training Staff
Personal Training

Why You Need A Personal Trainer For Beginner Workouts

Embarking on your fitness journey can be both exciting and daunting. Starting is often the most challenging part, whether your goal is to lose weight, gain muscles, or become healthier. A personal trainer for beginner workouts can make this process easier, providing you with the tools you need to achieve your fitness goals. The Benefits...
August 30, 2023
Meet Liz, Your FRC Grand Rapids Stretching And Mobility Coach Motive Training Staff
Grand Rapids

Meet Liz, Your FRC Grand Rapids Stretching And Mobility Coach

Meet Liz, an embodiment of dedication and passion in the sphere of exercise science. She's a certified personal trainer and an expert in mobility and stretching in Grand Rapids. Though unique and inspiring, her journey is centered around a single goal: to help individuals embrace exercise as a part of their lifestyle and relish the...
August 30, 2023
Motive Training: One Of The Hidden Gyms In Austin Brian Murray
Austin, TX

Motive Training: One Of The Hidden Gyms In Austin

Most people search for gyms in Austin and find corporate, cookie-cutter boxes. However, we know from firsthand experience that not all gyms are created equal. At Motive Training, we redefine personal training with our unique approach, specialized programs, and unwavering dedication to your health and fitness goals. Our Story In the fitness world, experience is...
August 24, 2023
3 Stretches For Better Shoulders Brian Murray
Mobility

3 Stretches For Better Shoulders

Shoulder mobility is a crucial aspect of overall health and fitness. As a pivotal joint with a wide range of motion, the shoulder plays a significant role in many daily activities and exercises. However, due to our modern lifestyle, many experience shoulder discomfort and limited mobility. We've found 3 stretches that will definitely help loosen...
August 19, 2023
Atomic Habits — Creating Better Habits Brian Murray
General

Atomic Habits — Creating Better Habits

Atomic Habits is one of the most prominent self-help and personal development books on the market. Naturally, I had to buy it and let it sit on my desk for two years before digging into it. I'm not against the personal development genre; most of the books I have on my shelf fall into that...
August 14, 2023
Three Reasons Our Fitness Coaching Program Rocks Daniel Montgomery
Healthy Living

Three Reasons Our Fitness Coaching Program Rocks

‍Cookie-cutter fitness programs are everywhere. You can find pretty much any program known to man just by searching on Google. However, your fitness journey is as unique as you are. With the proper guidance and a truly tailored approach, you can transform your life in ways you never thought possible. Introduction In every individual...
August 14, 2023
Video: How To Stretch Your Wrist Flexors Brian Murray
Stretching

Video: How To Stretch Your Wrist Flexors

Wrist flexibility and mobility play crucial roles in our daily activities. Whether typing, lifting weights, or simply shaking hands, the range of motion in our wrists affects our ability to perform these tasks efficiently. One way to improve wrist flexibility is to stretch wrist flexors, the muscle group that enables wrist flexion. Understanding Wrist Flexion...
August 2, 2023
Mobility Training South Austin: Enhancing Your Movement Potential Brian Murray
Functional Range Conditioning

Mobility Training South Austin: Enhancing Your Movement Potential

For the last year and a half (while Motive Training ATX was being built), I worked in a local gym in South Austin. The gym is excellent, but most members focus on powerlifting, strength training, strongman training, or Olympic lifting. Rarely do I see gym-goers spend time stretching or working on their mobility, which is...
August 2, 2023
Unraveling the Benefits of Stretching: More Than Just Flexibility Motive Training Staff
Stretching

Unraveling the Benefits of Stretching: More Than Just Flexibility

Stretching, a simple act we often take for granted, holds immense potential to enhance our overall health, athletic performance, and longevity. This article aims to delve into the science behind stretching, debunking myths, and revealing the unexpected benefits of stretching. Understanding the Intricacies of Motion: Passive vs. Active There's a distinction in our body's capability...
July 24, 2023
Functional Range Conditioning in Grand Rapids Daniel Montgomery
Functional Range Conditioning

Functional Range Conditioning in Grand Rapids

In the realm of physical wellness and fitness, a groundbreaking approach has emerged known as Functional Range Conditioning (FRC). This innovative system is the brainchild of world-renowned musculoskeletal and movement expert Dr. Andreo Spina. FRC maximizes your body's mobility, strength, and control. Let's take a closer look at how we can leverage this revolutionary training...
July 19, 2023
Why Did We Name Our Gym Motive? Brian Murray
Personal Training

Why Did We Name Our Gym Motive?

Hi, I'm Brian Murray, the founder of Motive Training, sometimes referred to as the "motive gym." I'm here to introduce you to our world of fitness, where we strive to make a difference in your life through personalized training. Today, I want to share our story and the core principles that shape our approach to...
July 14, 2023
Motive Training: Your Fitness Partner in Heartside, Grand Rapids Brian Murray
Grand Rapids

Motive Training: Your Fitness Partner in Heartside, Grand Rapids

‍If this is your first time here, welcome. We are Motive Training Grand Rapids, located at 435 La Grave Ave SE STE 104, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. We're a unique science-backed fitness studio nestled in the heart of Heartside Grand Rapids, a stone's throw away from the esteemed Heritage Hill community. We've been open for...
July 11, 2023
The Advantages Of Fitness In A Personal Training Studio Brian Murray
Personal Training

The Advantages Of Fitness In A Personal Training Studio

Ever since the pandemic happened, the world of fitness has been evolving. The traditional gym environment is no longer the most coveted option for those seeking to improve their health and physical strength. An increasing number of individuals are discovering the benefits of a personal training studio, an intimate, focused space where personalized fitness experiences...
July 10, 2023
The Silver Lining: Valuable Insights From Overcoming Injuries Brian Murray
Injuries

The Silver Lining: Valuable Insights From Overcoming Injuries

Often, the experience of an injury can feel like a grim tunnel with no end in sight. However, as a fitness enthusiast who recently suffered a calf tear during a kickboxing session, I've come to realize there are valuable lessons hidden in this journey of discomfort and healing. But I don't want to paint such...
June 26, 2023
Is Couples Personal Training Worth It? Motive Training Staff
Personal Training

Is Couples Personal Training Worth It?

‍Couples personal training is an innovative and rewarding way to work on your fitness goals with your partner, friend, or loved one. By sharing the journey, you create a bond that helps you both hold each other accountable, stay motivated, and enjoy the process. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the numerous benefits of...
June 13, 2023
Personal Trainer Testimonials: Real-Life Success Stories From Motive Training Brian Murray
Client Spotlight

Personal Trainer Testimonials: Real-Life Success Stories From Motive Training

Are you looking for a personal trainer who can help you achieve your fitness goals? Look no further than Motive Training. We pride ourselves on delivering the highest quality personal training services, and we have the testimonials to prove it. Our clients have experienced incredible results. Our transformations are top-notch thanks to our dedicated, experienced...
June 12, 2023
Case Study: Consistency Is Key Marie Barker
Client Spotlight

Case Study: Consistency Is Key

Exercise, like any habit, is a game of consistency. Today, I will show you exactly why consistency is key for your progress. Meet Matthew. He came to us looking to get back into strength training and recommit to his healthier lifestyle. In the past, he spent time exercising with friends and found he genuinely enjoyed...
June 5, 2023
Should You Do The Functional Range Assessment? Brian Murray
Functional Range Assessment

Should You Do The Functional Range Assessment?

‍The personal training industry has hundreds of training methods and modalities. If you become a personal trainer, you can branch off and coach people in all sorts of directions. For instance, you can coach athletics and sports, weight loss, mobility, powerlifting, Olympic lifting, and the list goes on from there. Similarly, a personal trainer will...
May 24, 2023
Meet Our Grand Rapids Personal Trainer, Ben Motive Training Staff
Personal Training

Meet Our Grand Rapids Personal Trainer, Ben

Get ready to start your fitness journey with the best personal training in Grand Rapids! Introducing Ben, our newest personal trainer. Ben has dedicated his life to studying and understanding the science of exercise; his passion for fitness shines through in every aspect of his work. Unlike most personal trainers, Ben will do anything to...
May 16, 2023
No Wonder You Have Neck Pain Motive Training Staff
Healthy Living

No Wonder You Have Neck Pain

Let me paint you a picture. The year is 2048. You have a solid career, a family you love and cherish, a dream home with a white picket fence, and friends galore. Yet, even though it's twenty-five years into the future, you're somehow driving a gas-powered car (just humor me). On your way to the...
May 12, 2023
Mastering Mobility: How Functional Range Conditioning Can Change Your Life Motive Training Staff
Functional Range Conditioning

Mastering Mobility: How Functional Range Conditioning Can Change Your Life

Functional Range Conditioning (FRC) is a comprehensive mobility and joint training system that aims to help you move better, feel better, and perform at your best. Developed by Dr. Andreo Spina, FRC is designed to improve your overall movement quality by targeting joint health, flexibility, and strength. As a result, FRC has become increasingly popular...
May 2, 2023
From the Dental Chair to the Gym: How One Dentist's Experience with a Personal Trainer Transformed Their Life Marie Barker
Assessments

From the Dental Chair to the Gym: How One Dentist's Experience with a Personal Trainer Transformed Their Life

As a personal trainer at Motive Training in Grand Rapids, MI, I have had the pleasure of working with clients with a wide range of fitness goals and concerns. Recently, I had the opportunity to work with a client, Thomas, who was in significant pain and discomfort. Here is his story. Thomas was dealing with...
April 27, 2023
Why KINSTRETCH Is The Best Mobility Class Around Brian Murray
KINSTRETCH

Why KINSTRETCH Is The Best Mobility Class Around

In 2017, I was at a fitness conference in Seattle with my crew from Born Fitness. For whatever reason, I kept hearing a group of coaches talk about how great "FRC" was. At the time, I chalked up FRC as another fitness acronym organization, like ART, MAT, DNS, CPT, etc., peddling the "next best thing."...
April 16, 2023
The Power of Pain Intervention Motive Training Staff
Mobility

The Power of Pain Intervention

Living with chronic pain can be a challenging and debilitating experience affecting every aspect of your life. Don't believe me? Ask someone with chronic pain what it's like to just wake up in the morning. It's brutal. Unfortunately, pain can interfere with your ability to work, socialize, and engage in activities you enjoy. It can...
April 13, 2023
Should You Hire A Chiropractor? Brian Murray
Healthy Living

Should You Hire A Chiropractor?

Sometimes, when I'm bored, I browse the Grand Rapids subreddit to keep up with current events. It's usually filled with random questions and complaints, as most cities' subreddits are. However, I saw one recently that caught me off guard. The post has since been deleted, but a user posted a question about chiropractors in the...
February 26, 2023
Why Women Need To Lift Weights Motive Training Staff
Fitness

Why Women Need To Lift Weights

Does the idea of women strength training scare you? It shouldn't, but there's still a misconception about strength training that we want to squash today. First, let's hear what some of our clients have said. "I'm not looking to get muscly or bulky, I just want to lean out a little bit." "I want to...
January 21, 2023
New Year, Same You? Motive Training Staff
General

New Year, Same You?

Are you excited about the new year? Of course, you are. January is the best time to start fresh. Society collectively turns a corner, puts the past behind them, and works toward improving; now, you can kick that pop drinking habit to the curb and hit Planet Fitness five times a week. New year, new...
January 16, 2023
The Fountain Of Youth: It's Real Marie Barker
Strength

The Fountain Of Youth: It's Real

Have you ever heard of the fountain of youth? It's a mythical spring that will restore and revitalize anyone who drinks or bathes in its waters. It sounds too good to be true, but we know exactly where the spring is. First, I want you to imagine a scenario where you come upon this fabled...
January 2, 2023
An Unexpected Reward. Brian Murray
General

An Unexpected Reward.

If you ask ten different business owners what it's like to own a business, you're bound to get ten completely different answers. Some will say they love it, while others can't stand it (and are actively trying to get out of business in one way or another). I, on the other hand, sit somewhere in...
December 17, 2022
It Only Takes One. Motive Training Staff
General

It Only Takes One.

In 2017, I was lucky enough to attend a fitness (networking) conference in Seattle. The lineup of presenters was legendary: Martin Rooney, Brett Bartholomew, Mark Fisher, Adam Bornstein, and the list goes on from there. Hundreds of people came from all over the world to learn from the industry's best. I knew it would be...
October 31, 2022
Strength Is Internal Brian Murray
General

Strength Is Internal

In 2020, the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research released an interesting study about barbell squat strength and injury risk. (1) They compared collegiate athletes' ability to perform a one-repetition maximum (1RM) barbell back squat with their injury history. The researchers found that greater barbell squat strength was associated with a lower risk of lower...
October 20, 2022
Client Spotlight: Jenn V. Motive Training Staff
Client Spotlight

Client Spotlight: Jenn V.

Every month, we will share detailed stories about one of our amazing clients at Motive Training. This month, we want to highlight Jenn V. Jenn has been working at Motive for more than six months, and she's seen incredible mental, physical, and emotional progress. Here is what her trainer, Marie Barker, had to say about
August 12, 2022
Lessons In Pain. Brian Murray
Pain

Lessons In Pain.

Back in 2016, I woke up with so much lower back pain that I couldn't even bend over to get into my car to drive to the hospital. I took off a week from work at my remote job just to try to find pain relief of some kind. It felt like something in my...
July 4, 2022
Stop Lambasting Exercise Machines. Brian Murray
General

Stop Lambasting Exercise Machines.

If you've ever stepped foot into Motive Training in Grand Rapids, MI, you know we don't have exercise machines at all. We use squat racks, free weights, barbells, dumbbells, sandbags; you name it. However, we don't have cable machines, selectorized equipment, exercise bikes, or anything along those lines. These are the typical machines you might...
June 24, 2022
Stretching Is Training. Brian Murray
Stretching

Stretching Is Training.

I remember back in the day when I used to think stretching was useless. In 2010, I read Lou Schuler and Alwyn Cosgrove's book, The New Rules of Lifting: Six Basic Moves for Maximum Muscle. It was a pretty stellar book, highlighting the importance of functional movements (e.g., squats, lunges, pushing, etc.) to improve health...
June 16, 2022
Should You Hire A Personal Trainer? Brian Murray
Personal Training

Should You Hire A Personal Trainer?

When I introduce myself to new friends or acquaintances, I tell them I'm a personal trainer. And every single time, like clockwork, they associate my profession with people like Arnold Schwarzenegger or Richard Simmons. Don't get me wrong; I love Arnold and Richard, but personal training is not well-represented by fitness celebrities. So, what exactly
June 5, 2022
Lower Back Stretches: Are They Effective? Motive Training Staff
Stretching

Lower Back Stretches: Are They Effective?

It's probably not surprising that "lower back stretches" is one of the most searched terms in health and fitness. We exercise less, sit at our home offices more, and are on track to be the unhealthiest we've ever been. You can Google health or obesity statistics and see for yourself; it's sad and disheartening to...
May 16, 2022
Video: Tight Calves, Or A Lack Of Ankle Eversion? Motive Training Staff
Functional Range Conditioning

Video: Tight Calves, Or A Lack Of Ankle Eversion?

Do you have tight calves? Do your ankles feel like blocks? Well, you're not alone. We often work with clients with beat-up ankles. They wake up with pain in the bottoms of their feet or struggle to push their knees over their toes without the ankle lifting off the ground. They go to their doctors,
April 14, 2022
Video: Stop Following This Hip Mobility Trend - Motive Training Motive Training Staff
Functional Range Conditioning

Video: Stop Following This Hip Mobility Trend - Motive Training

If there's one hip mobility drill I see on the internet more than anything, it's the 90/90, windshield wiper, drill/exercise/thing. You sit on your butt, put your knees in 90-degree angles, and then move them side to side to "open up the hips." Then, depending on the goal, you can train (mobilize) the hips or
March 22, 2022
Video: Understanding Hip Extension Motive Training Staff
Fitness

Video: Understanding Hip Extension

Stand up. Swing one of your legs behind your body. Boom! That's hip extension (i.e., the movement of your femur/thigh away from your front pelvis). Or is it? In a perfect world, everyone can go into true hip extension smooth as butter, making things like running and deadlifting easy and efficient. But that's a perfect...
March 19, 2022
My Upper Traps: A Closer Look Brian Murray
Functional Range Conditioning

My Upper Traps: A Closer Look

I’ve been consistently strength training at the gym for the last ten years using all sorts of equipment with various goals in mind (e.g., wanting to be lean, strong, more muscular, etc.) Of course, I have strengths and weaknesses like everyone else, but I’d like to think...
March 16, 2022
Level Up Your Stretching With PAILs And RAILs Brian Murray
Assessments

Level Up Your Stretching With PAILs And RAILs

PAILS & RAILS: It's A mouthful. If you've ever been to our gym or done one of our KINSTRETCH classes, you know we do these things called PAILs and RAILs. PAILs and RAILs are acronyms we use to describe a method of stretching from Functional Range Conditioning (FRC). And as you'll see, it makes a...
February 21, 2022
Why Barefoot Is The Way Motive Training Staff
Healthy Living

Why Barefoot Is The Way

I went to a podiatrist (foot doctor) for ankle pain at around ten years old. I remember walking in a bit nervous because no one had ever touched my feet before, and I barely touched them myself aside from putting on socks and shoes. My doctor instructed me to take my shoes and socks and lay flat on the table barefoot; then, he did a bunch of tests...
January 13, 2022
Warm-Ups: Make Them Broadly-Specific Brian Murray
Functional Range Conditioning

Warm-Ups: Make Them Broadly-Specific

Warm-ups aren’t a contentious topic in the fitness industry, but most coaches I know approach warm-ups in various ways. If you take ten coaches and ask them how they warm their clients up, you will get ten different answers. Some coaches have their clients foam roll their achy body parts, some will put their clients...
January 12, 2022
What Is Functional Range Conditioning: An Intro Brian Murray
Functional Range Conditioning

What Is Functional Range Conditioning: An Intro

Motive Training has grown significantly over the last 18 months. We have always been a movement-focused gym. However, we recently kicked things up a notch by intertwining Functional Range Conditioning (FRC®) into our programming. FRC is a joint health and mobility system that assesses, improves, and sustains joint strength, integrity, and resilience. Its goal is...
December 10, 2021
Re-Examining Your Cool-Down Routine Brian Murray
Functional Range Conditioning

Re-Examining Your Cool-Down Routine

You just finished a killer full-body workout, and you’re exhausted. What do you do next? Most people would say, “Cool down.” The goal is pretty straightforward: relax the body, slow the heart rate, and physically cool off. The current literature does not support a need to do anything post-exercise other than cease moving. However, most...
December 10, 2021
Functional Fitness - Evolving Past "Pattern Training" Brian Murray
Fitness

Functional Fitness - Evolving Past "Pattern Training"

What makes a squat a squat?  Believe it or not, the Greek philosopher Plato didn't have a clue what functional fitness was. But if you asked him about modern-day functional fitness exercises like squats, he would say that squats are squats because we made them so. In other words, squats exist because we made them...
December 10, 2021
Case Study: Why The Right Assessments Matter Brian Murray
Assessments

Case Study: Why The Right Assessments Matter

Pain is no joke, and as you'll see, it changed Tom's life for good. Thankfully, we were able to help. Meet Tom, a former collegiate rugby player and all-around athlete who spent most of his life physically active and healthy. Of course, he endured injuries, aches, and pain along the way, as many of us do,...
December 10, 2021
Case Study: You Can't Move Where You Can't Move Brian Murray
Functional Range Conditioning

Case Study: You Can't Move Where You Can't Move

If you read our previous articles, you know that your body moves—and has moved—because of the information it has received since the day you were born. You move based on what your body has perceived it needs to accomplish a given task. Therefore, your body as a movement system is beholden to the inputs that...
December 10, 2021
Case Study: Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Brian Murray
Functional Range Conditioning

Case Study: Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a blanket term used to describe compression of the first rib and collarbone. TOS often results in nerve pain, discomfort, and numbness in the arm or extremities. Unfortunately, the cause of thoracic outlet syndrome is unclear. However, we know genetics play a role, as can traumas or lifestyle-related activities. Anyone...
December 10, 2021
I'm Brian Murray, And This Is My Journey - Motive Training Brian Murray
Fitness

I'm Brian Murray, And This Is My Journey - Motive Training

Hi, I'm Brian Murray. In 2006, I was lost, hopeless, and clueless. Here's my story. Spring, 2006. It's a few weeks until high school graduation. I'm lumbering through fluorescent hallways filled with all the regulars we know and love. The suck-ups and brown-nosers walk alongside the history teacher, attached at the hip. Shy brainiacs sit against...
December 10, 2021

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The truth is that most people spin their wheels far longer than they should. We understand. Your life is busy, you have prior commitments, and change may seem impossible. But we believe in your potential for change. Even if you don’t know where to start, we’re here to guide you.

Just remember: being personal trainers and coaches is not just a side job for us, it’s our life’s mission. We wake up every day with the sole purpose of impacting as many lives as possible with a completely customized, high-level coaching program. We are dedicated to helping you stay committed to your health and fitness journey, no matter what it takes.

Why waste another moment on programs that aren’t designed for you or personal trainers who don’t take your goals seriously? It’s time to make a change.

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